Thorough documentation based on a respected clinical source is the best way to obtain preauthorization or appeal a denial. In addition to government sources such as AHRQ, it may be worth asking your most frequent payers what guidelines they use. Clearly document any deviation from evidence-based guidelines.
Best Practices for Avoiding Prior Authorization Denials Double-check the billing codes. Use the correct spelling for all names. Fully detail why you've recommended the treatment. Outline any treatments the patient has already tried and failed. Back up your claims with evidence-based clinical guidelines.
If your resubmitted claim is denied and you believe the denial was improper, you may appeal the decision ing to the carrier's guidelines. Make sure you know exactly what information you need to submit with your appeal. Keep in mind that appeal procedures may vary by insurance company and state law.
Some basic pointers for handling claims denials are outlined below. Carefully review all notifications regarding the claim. Be persistent. Don't delay. Get to know the appeals process. Maintain records on disputed claims. Remember that help is available.
You can start the appeal process by calling your insurance provider. Ask for more details about the denial and review your appeal options. Your insurance agent can walk you through the appeals process to help get you started.
If your request for prior authorization is denied, then you and your patient will be notified about the denial. The first step is to understand the reason behind the denial, so contact the health insurance company to find out the problem. For example, a PA request for a medication might be rejected due to many reasons.
They would need to first contact the insurance company and ask why the claim was denied. If the insurance company indicates a billing error or missing information, patients can work with their physician to review the paperwork and fix any errors that caused the denial.
The insurance company may try to deny your claim for a host of reasons, including: Damages exceeding the limits of the insurance policy coverage. The existing coverage limits already being exhausted. The policy not including the appropriate kind of coverage.